Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Health Tips for October 14

Health Tip: Keep a Health Journal

Keeping a health journal is a great way to share your medical history with your doctors.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers this advice on what to record:

  • Any illness or injury.
  • Any surgery or procedure.
  • Any time you go to the hospital.
  • Any allergies to food, substances or medications.
  • A history, in your immediate family, of any disease or condition.
  • Every medication, vitamin or supplement you take, as well as dosage information.

Health Tip: Be a Smart Patient

Although your doctor and other health-care professionals do their best to help you stay safe, there are things you can do to prevent problems.

The Cleveland Clinic offers these suggestions on how to be a smart patient:

  • If you have a question or concern about your health or treatment, talk to your doctor about it. Bring a friend or family member if you need help understanding what you must do.
  • Give your doctor and pharmacist a complete list of every medication you take, including those sold over-the-counter. Ask about any side effects or sets of drugs that shouldn't be taken together.
  • Always get your test results. Ask your doctor at the time of the test when results will be available, and when you can discuss them together.
  • If you are able to choose a hospital, discuss the choices with your doctor.
  • If you need surgery, ask your physician what will happen, what to expect, and what you need to do.

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